Native Assyria
This continuing series draws an artistic connection between the ancient Assyrian and Native American cultures, which have similar histories of triumph and lament. Rabel working to find—perhaps to create—a new visual language, and through it, to explore the shared experiences in these seemingly disparate cultures.
Lamassu Shikaakwa
Combining the head of the Assyrian winged bull with a Native American headdress.
Qrawtanna Ashur
Envisioning the God Ashur for modern times.
Ishtar Barbeya
This piece explores fertility and birth. The central figure, wearing traditional Assyrian clothing, represents Ishtar, goddess of fertility, love and war. Her strength and beauty create the life denoted in all four corners of the composition. Rabel’s wife and daughter, Maryam and Oneeta, are featured on this piece.
Digital, printed on silk